J.R. Martinez was honored by the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), as they presented him with the award for "Outstanding Disabled Veteran of the Year." The award recognizes Martinez's remarkable accomplishments in service to veterans.

“When you are injured, you miss that ability and opportunity to help and be a part of something bigger than yourself,” Martinez said, reported NBC Latino. Martinez suffered severe burns to more than 40 percent of his body when his vehicle hit a landmine during his deployment in Iraq. “This doesn’t mean my duty is going to be over, it just means I can serve at a different capacity. For me, it’s really an honor.”

The award was presented at the Disabled American Veterans' 91st convention held in Las Vegas. About four thousand people attended the event.

Martinez plans to continue his work educating others about veterans issues.

"We need to do a lot more," he said. "It's important for me to continue to build that platform. I have a voice and am not afraid to use it."

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